Catherine Anne Beal

Catherine Anne Beal April 23, 1947 - June 15, 2023 Catherine Anne Beal, a devoted wife, loving mother, accomplished educator, and passionate community advocate, passed away on June 15, 2023, at the age of 76. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Catherine was the cherished daughter of the late Helen Graham Beal and Frederick J. Beal, and she was a loving wife to the late David Jones. Catherine is survived by her sons, Joseph Rajan Beal and Daniel Roberto Beal, as well as by her brother, Patrick Beal. Catherine pursued her academic aspirations at Western Michigan University, where she obtained both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English. Her educational journey laid a solid foundation for her lifelong dedication to teaching and instilling a love for literature and language in her students. With a passion for education, Catherine embarked on a fulfilling career as an educator. She touched the lives of countless students during her years of service, leaving an indelible mark on their intellectual growth and personal development. Her commitment to nurturing young minds went beyond the classroom, as she played an active role in the Michigan Education Association and the National Education Association, advocating for the rights and well-being of both students and fellow educators. Catherine's impact extended beyond the realm of education. Recognizing the importance of civic engagement, she dedicated her time and efforts to serving her community. From 1977 to 1979, she served as a valued member of the Farmington Hills City Council, where she worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of local residents and championed initiatives that promoted progress and harmony within the community. Catherine was one of the founders of "Citizens for Peace," an organization committed to fostering understanding, dialogue, and nonviolent conflict resolution. Her passion for creating a better world was deeply rooted in her faith, and she played a vital role as a founding member of St. James Catholic Church in Novi, where her compassionate spirit touched the lives of many. As we bid farewell to Catherine, let us remember her as a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and social responsibility. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and her presence will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. A Funeral Mass will be held for Catherine at Holy Family Catholic Church 24505 Meadowbrook Rd, Novi, MI 48375 on Thursday, June 22, beginning at 11 AM with an instate period starting at 10:00 AM. To watch a livestream of Catherine's funeral mass please click here Catherine’s final resting place will be Battle Creek Memorial Park in Battle Creek, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Catherine's name to theSierra Club or to Catholic Charities.